Vinicius Jr hails Cucurella’s World Cup win as Madrid duo eye left-flank dominance

Vinicius Jr became the first Real Madrid player to publicly welcome new teammate Marc Cucurella after the Spain left-back starred in the World Cup final on 19 July 2026.

What happened?

Cucurella completed a dream summer by lifting the World Cup with Spain, then received a high-profile shoutout from Vinicius Jr on social media. The Brazilian posted Real Madrid’s trophy-kissing image with the caption: “Congratulations and welcome, Cucu!”-a message that instantly framed the new signing as a potential first-choice partner on the left flank.

The World Cup final saw Spain beat Argentina 2-1 in extra time, with Cucurella playing every minute and earning plaudits for his overlapping runs and defensive work rate. Vinicius Jr, meanwhile, had just finished his own tournament by stretching defenses from the right touchline, a role Cucurella’s movement could now amplify.

Why it matters for Vinicius Jr

Madrid’s left side has been a weak spot for years, but Cucurella’s arrival-and his chemistry with Vinicius Jr-could turn that weakness into a weapon. The Brazilian thrives when defenders are dragged out of position; Cucurella’s overlapping runs and inside channels create exactly the kind of space Vinicius Jr loves to exploit.

José Mourinho will have the final say on the lineup, yet all early signs point to Cucurella starting ahead of Ferland Mendy. If the pair click, Madrid’s left flank could become as feared as their right side, where Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo have already terrorized opponents for years.

What comes next?

Cucurella will join Real Madrid’s pre-season camp in early August after a short break. Vinicius Jr, fresh from the World Cup, is expected to report soon too, meaning the duo could spend weeks training together before the 2026-27 La Liga opener.

Their potential partnership isn’t just about defense. Cucurella’s ability to switch play and drift inside could free Vinicius Jr to cut inside onto his stronger left foot, while the Spaniard’s overlapping runs give the Brazilian a new target to thread passes through. Together, they could revive Madrid’s old left-sided menace.

How the World Cup shaped both players

Vinicius Jr’s tournament ended in the quarter-finals with Brazil’s shock exit to France, but he still produced some of his best football by hugging the touchline and stretching play. Cucurella, meanwhile, was Spain’s standout fullback, alternating attacking duties with Álex Baena and outshining Pedro Porro.

Madrid’s hierarchy watched closely. The club’s left flank has lacked a reliable outlet since Marcelo’s departure, and Cucurella’s World Cup heroics may have just sealed his place in the first XI. If Vinicius Jr’s social media post is any indication, the Brazilian is already on board.